Ascension Day in Saint Martin (Sint Maarten) is celebrated on the 40th day of Easter, that is, 39 days after Easter Sunday. This year, it will be observed on May 29. Also known as the Feast of the Ascension, Solemnity of the Ascension of Jesus Christ, or Ascension Thursday, the holiday commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven 40 days after his resurrection. Its observance can be traced back to the 4th and 5th centuries. Although all Christians believe in the ascension of Jesus, the day is predominantly commemorated by Catholics and Anglicans.
History of Ascencion Day (Saint Martin)
As documented in the Christian “Bible,” Jesus of Nazareth was sentenced to death and crucified by the Roman authorities between 30 A.D. and 36 A.D. After his crucifixion, he was buried in a tomb purchased by one of his followers called Joseph of Arimathea. On the Sabbath, the leading priests and Pharisees pleaded with the Roman authorities to put a large stone over his tomb to prevent anyone from coming to steal his body. Despite this arrangement, an angel of God appeared and rolled away the stone three days after the crucifixion, stunning the Roman guards who collapsed out of shock. Over the next 40 days, Jesus appeared to many witnesses in the city of Jerusalem.
According to the ‘Gospel of Luke, chapter 24:50–52,’ “Then Jesus led them to Bethany, and lifting his hands to heaven, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up to heaven. So they worshipped him and then returned to Jerusalem filled with great joy. And they spent all of their time in the Temple, praising God.”
The observance of Ascension Day in Saint Martin has roots that can be traced back to the 4th and 5th centuries. During the latter century, philosopher and theologian Augustine of Hippo mentioned Ascension Day as an observance that had been kept by the Catholic Church long before his time. In the Apostolic Constitutions written between 370 A.D. and 385 A.D., the day was frequently mentioned. Although all Christians believe in the ascension of Jesus, it is predominantly commemorated by Catholics and Anglicans. Today, common practices include attending church services and putting out the Easter candle. People also participate in processions, carrying torches and banners. Fruits and vegetables may be taken to church for blessing. In Saint Martin, Ascension Day is a public holiday.
Ascencion Day (Saint Martin) timeline
Jesus ascends to Heaven after his death and resurrection.
Augustine of Hippo notes that Ascension Day is of Apostolic origin and universally observed in the Catholic Church.
“The Apostolic Constitutions” are written, containing frequent mentions of Ascension Day.
The island of Saint Martin is discovered by Christopher Columbus.
Ascencion Day (Saint Martin) FAQs
Is St. Martin the smallest island in the world?
No. However, it is the smallest island in the world belonging to two countries.
How did Saint Martin get its name?
In 1492, Christopher Columbus named the island after Saint Martin of Tours.
What is the culture of St Maarten?
The culture of Saint Martin is a mixture of Dutch, French, British, and African heritage.
How to Observe Ascencion Day (Saint Martin)
Read the gospels
On this beautiful day, celebrate by reading the gospels. This will help you gain first-hand knowledge about the impact of Christ's earthly life and the events that took place before and after the ascension.
Visit Saint Martin
Celebrate by scheduling a trip to the lovely island of Saint Martin. Whether it’s an online tour or a physical one, you’ll love this beautiful Caribbean island.
Share with others
Share all the awesome facts about this holiday with other people. Post a link to this article online and use the hashtag #ascensionday.
5 Amazing Facts About Saint Martin
Saint Martin is in two countries
Saint Martin is a small island divided between France and the Netherlands.
The island is incredibly small
The island has a total size of 34 square miles.
The island has two names
The northern part of the island is called St. Martin while the Dutch southern part is known as Sint Maarten.
The island’s population is small
The French part of the island is populated by about 31,754 people, while the Dutch part has an estimated population of 36,689 people.
There are no barriers
There is no border between the French part and the Dutch part of the island.
Why Ascencion Day (Saint Martin) is Important
Christ died for the world
With his precious blood, Jesus offered himself as a sacrifice for the remission of our sins. Because of his sacrifice, humanity has freedom from the power of death and sin.
Christ left a legacy of love
Christ left a legacy of love for all his followers. He taught about how to love one's enemies and be a light in the world. After multiple centuries, his impact is still being felt to a large extent.
Saint Martin is lovely
Located in the northeast part of the Caribbean Sea, Saint Martin is a lovely island. Full of lush beaches, pert gingerbread houses, and high-end shops, the island is a place of relaxation and beauty.
Ascencion Day (Saint Martin) dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | May 9 | Thursday |
| 2025 | May 29 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 14 | Thursday |
